Life membership for progress association couple
Pearl Beach Progress Association members Mr Paul Wickham and Ms Greti Rieger have been awarded life membership of the association "in recognition of their outstanding contribution over many years".
They were presented with their awards at the association's general meeting of February 1.
"Paul and Greti discovered Pearl Beach in 2008 and instantly fell in love with the village, its environment, and the warmth of the locals," said association publicity officer Ms Lynne Lillico.
"At an early Progress meeting, Frank Long, who was then running the entertainment system, held up a small black unit and asked if anyone in the hall knew what it was.
"Paul piped up that it was a graphic equalizer.
"With that Paul and Greti became volunteers for the sound and light system, and took over Frank's role when he and Carole departed the village.
"We never think about Paul Wickham without thinking of Greti Rieger as well.
"Paul and Greti are a great team.
"Paul always strived to get the best possible setup for the various events and a memorable presentation for the audience.
"He wanted to create a more professional sound and lighting system for the hall and with the help of Russell Grove was successful with a grant application to the Community Building Partnership in 2019.
"This resulted in a safety and energy efficient upgrade to the old electrical wiring, switchboard and LED stage lighting.
"The installation and continued management has seen both Greti and Paul up ladders frequently.
"Now that Paul's ladder climbing days are numbered, he decided that it was time to concentrate on his first love again, that of music.
"He has come full circle and is now learning to play the bass again.
"Greti can now pursue her other creative interests, including photography."
The couple are pictured receiving their Life Memberships from Mr Russell Grove.
SOURCE:
Media release, 4 Feb 2025
Lynne Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association